Scope and Content

Papers relating to the activities of the Pacific Phosphate Company on OceanIsland, including correspondence with Sir John Lever, and reports and lettersof J.T. Arundel and others relating to the French business of the company,1900-1923; also agreements, indentures, contracts, reports, etc..

Administrative / Biographical History

Bernard T. Balding was a member of the board of the Pacific Phosphate Co.[c1915-1919?]. The company was formed in 1902 by Lord Stanmore and began miningon Ocean Island (later Banaba). In 1905 it gained mineral rights on Nauruin return for granting certain concessions to the German Government, includingshares in the company. In 1917 the German shares were sold to the Elder, DempsterShipping Co.. In 1920 the company was sold to the British PhosphateCommissioners, a consortium administered by Great Britain, Australia and NewZealand.